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2022 Symphony By the Lake at Timberlake's Restaurant

2022 Symphony By the Lake at Timberlake’s Restaurant

Posted on by Admin

The 2022 Symphony By The Lake with the theme of movie soundtracks will be an unforgettable event! With limited seating options this year, we invite you to join us at Timberlake's Restaurant for dinner and the Symphony. Below are the dining options at Timberlake's Restaurant.

Call us at 828-295-5505 for reservations (required)

2022 Symphony by the Lake will be held Friday July 22, 2022

Dinner on the Patio (includes dinner, private seating on the patio to enjoy the Symphony- does not include a ticket to get into the stage area)
$150/ person

Dinner at the Arbor (includes heavy appetizers, private seating at the Arbor to enjoy the Symphony- does not include a ticket to get into the stage area)
$110/ person

*the Arbor has the best view of the fireworks show!

Please call us at 828-295-5505 for reservations (required)

Additional Information & Dining Options
*Regular dinner will be served from 4 pm to 6 pm
Chetola Picnic option includes a house-made wrap, side, and dessert ($16)
A limited bar with specialty cocktails will be available for all Symphony Guests

Posted on by Admin

 

Spring is coming, but it’s not quite here yet so there’s still a few weeks to enjoy winter cocktails at Headwater’s Pub at Chetola Resort!

Whether you’re coming to see us at Headwater’s Pub in the next few weeks or want to enjoy one last wintry cocktail at home, we’ve got you covered with the Hornet’s Kiss.

Hornet’s Kiss Cocktail

Ingredients

▪︎ 1.5 oz Tanqueray gin

▪︎ 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

▪︎ 0.5 oz Jalapeno Honey Simple Syrup

 

Instructions

Combine ingredients and stir lightly.

Strain into a fresh rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with a lemon twist.

 

Cheers! We hope to see you soon for a drink at Headwater’s Pub!

Posted on by Admin

 

The High Country is known for its delicious food, elegant wines, and tasty beers but if you know where to look, it also has some amazing dessert spots. After a day full of adventures, if you’re craving something divine to slice into, check out our favorite spots around the High Country to enjoy a treat.

And, if you’re curious what spots our in-house pastry chef, Abby recommends look for a star * next to the name!

*Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort

If you haven’t been to Timberlake’s Restaurant to enjoy one of Pastry Chef Abby Tetterton’s amazing desserts, your tastebuds are missing out! With dessert specials changing every few days, there’s always something delicious to devour like Banana Pudding Cheesecake, French Toast Bread Pudding, Lavender Crème Brûlée, and more!

*Reservations are always recommended for dining at Timberlake’s Restaurant.

Flavia’s Blowing Rock

Though only open May – November, life is better because their desserts are some of the best. With mini personal cheesecakes, eclairs, opera cakes, cannoli’s, and so many more mouth-watering treats to choose from, you can’t visit Blowing Rock without enjoying a dessert from Flavia’s.

Photo courtesy of Stick Boy Bread Co

*Stick Boy Bakery

A staple of the High Country, it isn’t a true trip to the area unless you stop by Stick Boy Bakery for a magic cookie, a cinnamon roll with cream cheese, or anything in their pastry case. End your adventurous afternoon with a sweet treat from Stick Boy Bakery or stop by and pick something up to enjoy during your day out

Photo courtesy of Blue Deer Cookies

Blue Deer Cookies

Blue Deer combines two of your favorite desserts (cookies + ice cream) into one with their creamy + crunchy ice cream sandwiches. With unique seasonal ice cream flavors like strawberry, lemon, peach, and classics like chocolate, cookies ‘n’ cream, and a whole array of cookies to compliment them, this is the perfect treat for any day.

Photo Courtesy of The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge

The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge

Craving a dessert, you can just dive into? Then look no further than The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge. With delectable and classic options like NY Cheesecake, a Pecan Bar, or a Flourless Chocolate Torte you’re sure to find something to quench your sweet tooth.

The Penny Path Blowing Rock

Enjoy the pastries of France right in the heart of Blowing Rock at The Penny Path. With classic options like Nutella or Plain & Fancy and elaborate options like Crepe Tiramisu or Bananas Foster, a crepe for dessert will more than satisfy your sugar craving.  And though this blog is all about dessert, The Penny Path also has some delicious savory crepes.

Troy’s Diner

Troy’s Diner, a 50s style retro diner, is known for their delicious milkshakes that truly make you feel like your transported back in time. Offering 11 different flavors, like banana, strawnana, chocolate, and more, be sure to take a trip to the past to Troy’s Diner.

Photo courtesy of Proper Boone

Proper

Every ingredient put into the food and dessert at Proper is sourced locally and that means you know it’s yummy. With desserts like peach cobbler, raspberry shortcakes, chocolate peanut butter pie, and so much more, be sure to check out Proper’s local dessert selection on your next visit to the High Country.

Coming Soon! Locally made treats will soon be available in our new fly shop, The Wading Room!

You’re on vacation, be sure to treat yourself to a bakery tour of the most delectable desserts the High Country has to offer. We can’t wait to see you for a sweet treat soon.

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We love spending days outside enjoying the beautiful mountains but some days call for indoor adventures!

Whether traveling with family, friends or even solo, sometimes it can be difficult to find activities for all interests – especially on a rainy or snowy day. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of fun activities for all interests! Read on for a few of our favorite indoor activities around the High Country!

Center45 Climbing

Whether you’ve been climbing for years or want to try out bouldering for the first time, Center45 is the perfect spot for the entire family to experience bouldering. Along with its bouldering walls, Center45 also has a fitness area and a variety of climber training resources. Center45 offers day passes to climb and shoe and chalk rentals.

blowing rock art and history museum

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum

Explore art and discover the history of Blowing Rock at the BRAHM. With various art, history, and sometimes special exhibits for kids, the BRAHM is the perfect indoor activity where the whole family will find something to enjoy. And be sure to check their upcoming events calendar during your visit for things like Yoga at BRAHM, Doodlebug Club, or Afternoon Art.

Photo courtesy of: Docs Rocks Gem Mine

Docs Rocks Gem Mine

Have you ever wanted to learn about the historical geology of the Appalachian mountains and mine for fascinating gems? Then Docs Rocks is the perfect spot for you and your family to experience during your visit to Blowing Rock! In addition to mining for gorgeous gems (that you get to take home), at Docs Rocks, you can also explore their fossil museum (if your kiddo loves dinosaurs, they’ll really like this), and their new indoor paleo putt-putt course! With 3 activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a winter day at Docs Rocks Gem Mine.

Photo courtesy of Mystery Hill

Mystery Hill

A day of fun and wonder awaits you on a trip to Mystery Hill in Blowing Rock. With 10+ activities like Tomahawk Hill, Prospector Hill Gem Mining, Bull Riding Challenge, Bubblerama, and more, there is an experience for everyone in the family to have fun! With so many fun activities in one stop – Mystery Hill should be added to your indoor fun itinerary!

Photo courtesy of Linville Caverns

Linville Caverns

Experience a subterranean world and the history of the Linville Caverns with a tour of these age-old mountains from the inside! Linville Caverns is open year-round and is always a balmy 52 degrees F (a perfect indoor winter adventure). The caverns are an ideal adventure for everyone as they are accessible for all visitors of any age. Go explore the splendor and wonders nature created "inside a mountain" at Linville Caverns!

Photo courtesy of Turchin Center

Turchin Center

The Turchin Center engages visitors in meaningful experiences with visual arts. With two wings and six different galleries with changing exhibitions of contemporary artwork and local artists, whether you’re an art connoisseur or just a casual observer, there will be something for you to admire. Be sure to check their events schedule for special workshops or talk series during your visit! And if it’s a nice day see if you can spot all the Turchin outdoor sculptures around Appalachian State University’s campus.

Photo Courtesy of High Country Lanes

High Country Lanes

Enjoy 16 lanes of family fun! Take your family, friends, or colleagues and get bowling at High Country Lanes! With food and drinks available onsite, an afternoon or evening of bowling at High Country Lanes is the perfect way to spend the day and have fun with the whole family.

Photo Courtesy of Elwood's Hatchet House

Elwood’s Hatchet House

Boone’s first & only indoor Axe Throwing Tavern, Elmwood’s Hatchet House has 8 axe throwing targets, 2 corn hole lanes, a giant connect four, a pool table, air hockey, pinball, drinks, great food, and fun for everyone! Whether you’re looking for your next favorite snowy day activity or something entertaining for the whole family, an afternoon at Elmwood’s is sure to be a hit!

Photo Courtesy of Mysterium Escape Room

Mysterium Escape Room

Discover the only interactive escape in Boone, North Carolina, Mysterium Escape Room! Mysterium’s Escape Room is made from scratch and the rooms are built in-house which means you’ll have a totally unique experience that you’ve never had anywhere else. Whether you’re an escape room fanatic or looking to try something new, the Mysterium Escape Room is sure to be a fun indoor experience for all!

 

No matter what kind of activity you and your family are looking to enjoy on your next trip to Chetola, this list has lots of fun for everyone to enjoy (and add to your itinerary) for years to come! We can’t wait to see you on your next trip to Blowing Rock!

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Finding time for a family escape can seem like a daunting task, but when you have endless opportunities to get outside and explore the great outdoors, we believe that it is easier to make it happen, as creating unforgettable memories is a must! Spring in the mountains is an exciting time, as winter’s glistening glaze has receded, yet the views remain unobstructed and the trails relatively unexplored. We have compiled 5 of our favorite and lesser-known adventures that are perfect for the whole family. Do a little stretching, grab your favorite boots, and the rest of your favorite people, and head this way!

Horses, boots, and your favorite pair of Wranglers
Many horseback riding enthusiasts truly believe that experiencing the world from the back of a horse feeds the soul. There are very few natural ways to explore the trails in and around the High Country and horseback riding allows all experience levels to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. There are trails in the adjacent Moses Cone National Memorial Park, nearby state parks, as well as private trails with outfitters like Dutch Creek Trails. Whether you are just wanting a quick escape with a short trail ride or wish to bond with your new favorite steed on an epic adventure, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and ride horses in the mountains this season.

Chetola Sporting Reserve

Clay Pigeons, Wide Open Spaces, and Archery for the Kiddos
While many people may think of gun clubs when they think about target practice, did you know that one of the fastest-growing sports among women is clay shooting? And, did you know that there is a family-friendly sporting reserve that offers a 5-stand & 12-station course (clay pigeons), as well as archery and bb guns for the kiddos with NRA-Certified instructors? The Chetola Sporting Reserve even has a Lodge to enjoy small bites, drinks, and a cozy fireplace after your family has enjoyed a little time on the range. The 5-stand is also covered and heated in case Spring turns back to Winter and ushers in some cool weather. To top it off, the adventure starts even before you arrive, as guests enjoy a ridgetop drive through the Blue Ridge Mountain Club overlooking miles and miles of the Blue Ridge before descending 800 feet to the sporting reserve. This is quintessential awe-inspiring fun! For those looking for a little less excitement, there is another access point with less dramatic terrain (be sure to talk to the Sporting Reserve for directions).
https://chetola.com/recreation/sporting-reserve

A River Runs Through Our Majestic Mountains
Guided fly-fishing has become one of the most natural ways to immerse yourself in the natural world. There are hundreds of miles of pristine blue-ribbon trout waters that flow throughout the High Country of North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. As the first Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge in North Carolina, Chetola Resort offers families both walk-wade and float trips to learn the sport of fly-fishing. Not only is it awe-inspiring to watch your kids catch their first fish on a dry fly, but guides teach you about entomology, river health, and fish species. This is certainly an unforgettable experience. For kiddos 12 & under, we recommend a half-day to start.
https://chetola.com/recreation/fly-fishing/

Photo by Judi Sawyer | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Up Close and Personal with Wildlife
Have you ever wondered what is involved in caring for wild animals? At nearby Grandfather Mountains, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the wildlife and their habitats throughout the spring and summer months. Families can learn where the cougars, bears, and elk sleep at night, as well as what they eat, and even some of the training methods used in the operation. You will also get to see Bald Eagles and River Otters while enjoying the views from above 5000ft elevation. While these behind-the-scenes tours are only offered over the weekends, the park itself is open daily and offers plenty of trails for all abilities, a museum, the mile-high swinging bridge, as well as places to grab a snack or simply take in the view. GM also has specialty programs in the evenings, so be sure to check out their website (link) for more information.
https://grandfather.com/visit/experience-the-wonder/animal-habitats-vip-tours/

Photo courtesy of Mountain Warriors UTV

Exhilarating Rides Through the Blue Ridge Mountains
Riding over varied terrain in a 4-seater while enjoying breathtaking views might be a bucket-list activity, however, at Mountain Warriors UTV, this experience can be replicated as often as you like! They offer guided tours through the mountains with some of the nicest UTVs available. This experience is a must for any thrill-seeking family looking to get the most out of a mountain getaway. There are miles and miles of trails, expert guides, unmatched equipment, and plenty of opportunities to breathe in the fresh mountain air. You will certainly be sharing this experience with others!
https://www.offroadmountainwarriors.com/

Whether you are looking to fill your bucket-list adventures all at once or you simply want one epic adventure on each trip, there are plenty of exciting things to do in North Carolina’s High Country. Make Chetola Resort your family’s basecamp for an awe-inspiring Spring adventure and create some memories the kids will never forget.

Posted on by Admin

 

When going on a trip with your family, it can be hard to plan activities that will appeal to everyone’s interests.

We want you to have the best Chetola Resort and High-Country experience possible. To ensure an amazing trip, we’ve put together a few sample winter itineraries to help you and your loved ones plan the best trip ever – no matter your interests.

 

For the adventurous family:

  • Go for a winter hike together to see beautiful mountain views. See our favorite winter hikes here
  • Book an experience at the Chetola Sporting Reserve and choose from archery, clay shooting, or all of the above! Read about a CSR experience here
  • Enjoy a waterfall hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains. See our favorite waterfall hikes here
  • Create wonderful memories with Chetola Fly Fishing! Prepare for your fishing experience here
  • Play in the snow and go skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing with your favorite people. Plan your perfect ski experience here
  • Get your adrenaline pumping and go for a mountain bike ride on one of our favorite High Country Trails. See our favorite trails here
  • Experience what it’s like to fly through the trees on a ziplining adventure with Sky Valley Zip Tours, Hawksnest Ziplining, or High Gravity Zip Tours.

For the family who wants a relaxed getaway:

  • Enjoy a cozy drink or snacks in our new Orvis Shop Lounge
  • Go for a walk around Chetola Lake. Explore our favorite walks in Blowing Rock here
  • Warm-up in the hot tub as a family after spending time outside
  • Ditch the screens and grab a board game to play in the lodge, in your room, or in our new Orvis Lounge
  • Go for a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. See our favorite winter overlooks here. Check Blue Ridge Parkway closures here
  • Experience a walk-through fine art and history at the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. And enjoy a kid-specific exhibit, “Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites” now through February 26, 2022.

For the foodies:

  • Enjoy a delicious meal and dessert at Timberlake’s Restaurant. We are family-friendly; we do highly recommend reservations in advance.
  • On Saturday mornings, visit the Boone Winter Farmers Market for seasonal fresh vegetables, storage crops, locally raised meats, eggs, honey, homemade jellies, jams, baked items, handcrafted skincare, candles, unique crafts, and more!
  • Taste the Chetola’s Staff Favorite High Country eats (besides Timberlake’s Restaurant). Check out all our other top restaurant picks in the area here.
  • Have a “fancy” night in your lodge room or condo with a gourmet dessert and a charcuterie + artisanal cheese board from Timberlake’s Restaurant along with a movie

For those who like to shop til’ they drop:

  • Explore Chetola Resort’s *NEW* Orvis Fly Shop & Lounge for all your fly-fishing and outdoor needs
  • Take a short walk or drive to Downtown Blowing Rock to find unique antiques, art, jewelry, clothing boutiques, and home décor
  • Shop all your favorite designer brands and a few shops unique to the High Country at the Tanger Outlets located right next door to Chetola Resort
  • Take a trip back in time and shop for everything you can think of at the Mast General Store. Explore the one in Boone or the original in Valle Crucis
  • Experience unique shopping in Downtown Boone where they offer antique stores, craft venues, specialty shops, and moreMountain Sporting Clay Course at Chetola

For those who like a little bit of everything:

  • Enjoy s’mores by the lakeside firepit every Friday & Saturday night (weather dependent)
  • Take a trip to The Blowing Rock – experience the towns namesake and breathtaking views
  • Explore Linville Caverns and enjoy walking through an unusual series of underground rooms and passages
  • Climb to new heights and experience bouldering at Center45 in Boone
  • Enjoy a meaningful experience with visual arts at the Turchin Center
  • Reserve an experience with Chetola Sporting Reserve and spend the day shooting sporting clays

For those who never want to leave the Chetola grounds:

  • Make reservations for meals at Timberlake’s Restaurant or make plans to order room service! We serve Breakfast, Lunch, Pub Fare, and Dinner.
  • Get your body moving in our fitness gym or with one of our fitness classes going on during the week!
  • Spend some quality time in your accommodations with a puzzle, board game, or DVD Rental from Highlands Recreation
  • Explore our Kids in Park Track Trail that leads to Bass Lake and see views of Moses Cone Manor!
  • Become a kid again and play on the outdoor playground
  • Test your frisbee skills on our 9-Hole Disc Golf Course
  • Enjoy kid-friendly movie night on Thursday evenings in the Camp Room

 

No matter what you and your family are hoping to do on a trip to Blowing Rock, we’re here to help you have the best winter getaway possible. We can’t wait to welcome you to Chetola Resort this winter!

Posted on by Admin

 

No matter your age, there’s nothing quite like a cup of hot cocoa (or another delicious cozy beverage) to warm up a chilly winter’s day. The High Country is full of adventures, and after a day full of fun, hot chocolate can make a good day great.

Here are a few of our favorite spots in the area (just a short walk or drive from Chetola) to cozy up with a warm cup:

Camp Coffee Roasters

Just a short drive or walk from Chetola Resort, Camp Coffee is known for their yummy coffee and delicious pastries, but their cozy hot chocolate will make any cold winter day better. And if you ask, they’ll top your toasty drink with whipped cream and cinnamon!

Photo courtesy of Bald Guy Brew

Bald Guy Brew

Another great spot right in the heart of Blowing Rock is Bald Guy Brew. Offering delicious hot chocolate, a variety of warm coffee brews, and a cozy spot, Bald Guy Brew is a place you’ll want to experience.

Photo Courtesy of Hatchet Coffee

Hatchet Coffee

A favorite spot for locals, students, and visitors, Hatchet Coffee, located in East Boone is a must-stop if you’re craving a delicious warm cup of cocoa. Aside from their mouth-watering hot cocoa, Hatchet also has amazing specialty drinks, classic coffees, and yummy snacks.

Photo Courtesy of Local Lion

Local Lion

Although Local Lion is known for its amazing donuts and coffee, they also have heavenly hot chocolate, espresso, and tea for guests to enjoy. And you can enjoy all their drinks inside their wonderful space or take it on the go by picking it up in their drive-thru.

Photo Courtesy of Espresso News

Espresso News

Espresso News is located in the heart of Downtown Boone and in addition to a cozy atmosphere and tasty hot chocolate, Espresso News has a full espresso bar, smoothies, and pastries made in-house daily.

Photo Courtesy of Talia's Espresso

Talia Espresso Boone

Located on King Street in Downtown Boone, Talia’s Espresso offers 3 different varieties of delightful hot chocolate to choose from. And sometimes they have a special seasonal flavor! Besides yummy cocoa, Talia’s has a wide variety of specialty drinks, hot & cold drinks, cozy spots to sit, and serves smoothies and pastries.

Photo Courtesy of Kovu's Coffee

Kovu’s Coffee

One of the newest coffee shops in the High Country, Kovu’s Coffee offers a delicious cup of Kovu’s Hot Cocoa which is hot chocolate and caramel with whipped cream. In addition to their delicious hot chocolate, this adorable spot, just a short walk from Appalachian State University also offers coffee, specialty drinks, and a selection of baked goods.

Photo Courtesy of Higher Grounds

Higher Grounds Coffee Shop

Whether you’re in the mood for a normal cup of hot chocolate or an extra rich Ghiradelli Hot Chocolate, you can’t go wrong with any choices you make at Higher Grounds. In addition to these two amazing hot chocolate options, you can also indulge yourself in one of their espresso creations, specialty beverages, coffee basics, or when it finally gets warmer a cold and refreshing drink.

Photo Courtesy of Mountain Grounds

Mountain Grounds Coffee & Tea Co.

Located at the base of Grandfather Mountain in Banner Elk, Mountain Grounds not only serves delish cups of hot chocolate but also an array of specialty drinks inspired by the season. You can accompany any of their drinks with an array of delicious pastries.

Photo Courtesy of Fred & Larry's Coffee

Fred & Larry’s Coffee

A Banner Elk staple, Fred & Larry’s Coffee offers a white hot chocolate and a classic hot chocolate for visitors to enjoy. If neither of those choices entice you, they also offer espresso, lattés, smoothies, kratom, and kava to drink plus live music and local art to enjoy!

Photo Courtesy of Banner Elk Lodge & Cafe

Banner Elk Café

Known for their gourmet hot chocolate, the Banner Elk Café has its own espresso bar that in addition to their hot chocolate, serves freshly roasted coffees, hot teas, smoothies, specialty coffee drinks, and fresh-baked bagels and pastries. Feeling a bit peckish? Be sure to also enjoy a delicious breakfast or meal while you’re there.

Photo Courtesy of One Shot Cafe

One Shot Café

Another new coffee spot in the High Country, One Shot Café is located between Foscoe and Banner Elk and serves up yummy, warm hot cocoa as well as other specialty coffees and teas. To make it even more inviting, they have a cozy seating with local goods, pastries, and ice cream.

Photo Courtesy of Little Deer Cafe

Little Deer Café

Located in Linville, Little Deer Café is a quaint little spot that offers heavenly hot cocoa alongside fresh, homemade pastries, other specialty drinks,  delicious breakfast bites, and savory lunch options.

 

After a winter day full of fun hot chocolate is the perfect winter drink to warm you up and satisfy your sweet tooth. With so many hot chocolate spots AND fun activities, you’ll never be bored or un-cozy on a trip to Chetola Resort. We hope to see you with a cup of hot cocoa in hand soon!

*If you’re looking for a delicious adult hot chocolate to enjoy, visit us at Headwater’s Pub at Timberlake’s Restaurant for a Toasted Marshmallow cocktail!

Posted on by Admin

 

There is no better season to snuggle up with a cozy blanket and good book than winter in the mountains. And with beautiful fireplaces, cozy chairs, and our *NEW* Orvis Gift Shop / Coffee Shop seating area, there’s always a perfect spot at Chetola to cuddle up with the perfect book. Whether you’re looking for a new favorite read or something to pass the time, here are a few of our staff’s favorite winter reads:

The Hobbit by by J. R. R. Tolkien

“I often enjoy revisiting The Hobbit for its exotic locations and adventures.”

 - Drayton, Timberlake’s Restaurant

House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende

“Great for those with active imaginations and who enjoy magical realism.”

 - Gisselle, Guest Services

How to Be Yourself  by Ellen Hendriksen

“I really like the book ‘How to Be Yourself’ during all times of the year! It is a psychology book and I find it intriguing”

 - Catherine, Recreation

 

The Bible

“The Bible because I like to learn about God’s revelation of himself to his people.”

 - McKenzie, Timberlake’s Restaurant

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

“The whole book is an inspiration for me!”

 - Ashley, Night Audit

The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hahn

“I’ve been re-reading “The Miracle of Mindfulness” by Thich Nhat Hahn. One of New Year’s
Resolutions was to get back into meditation and practice mindfulness. This book is a great refresher for that.”

 - Jasmine, Front Desk

A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

“I love adventure books, especially those with elements of humor. When I can’t be outside enjoying an adventure, I like to read about others’ experiences. Plus, this one takes place pretty close to our home here in the mountains.”

 - PJ, Marketing

Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien

“Lord of the Rings because it just lasts forever.”

 - Lauren, Guest Services

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

“‘The Song of Achilles’ because it’s a very beautifully written book.”

 - Paola, Timberlake’s Restaurant

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

“‘The Four Agreements’ because it helps me feel grounded in the lonely winter months”

 - Kylee, Timberlake’s Restaurant

The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey

“The book takes place primarily in the West in summer and that sounds pretty dreamy right now.”

 - Nicholas, Security

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

“My favorite book to read is ‘The Book Thief’ by Markus Zusak. It is my favorite book from my childhood and I love going back to it on snow days when I’m stuck inside“

 - Grace, Timberlake’s Restaurant

Any Harry Potter Book by J.K. Rowling

“I love the movies and the books just add so much more details and they are very entertaining to read!”

 - Kali, Timberlake’s Restaurant

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

“I love to read “The Hunger Games” or any book in general. I love to read.”

 - Corina, Housekeeping

Green Eggs & Ham by Dr. Seuss

“I like to read it in a box with a fox or on a plane or a train. I like to read it here or there, I like to read it everywhere.”

 - Bryson, Headwater’s Pub

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

“No matter the time of year, I love to follow the adventures of Celaena Sardothien, a teenage

assassin in a corrupt kingdom. Anyone who loves a good fantasy, a female heroine, and fun

storytelling will enjoy this read”

 - Tristan, Marketing

A Grace Disguised by Gerald Lawson

- Olivia, Human Resources

The Ballad of Tom Dooley by Sharyn McCrumb

- Chassie, Marketing

 

No matter whether you’re snuggling up with a read from our list or a favorite of your own, we hope you enjoy your cozy getaway to Chetola Resort! We can’t wait to read with you!

Posted on by Admin

 

Planning Your Chetola Wedding: Where to Begin – The Necessities

If you’re reading this, then you’ve likely already made the biggest decision of this unforgettable process – finding your special someone! Congrats! At the end of the day, all the planning that’s about to ensue comes second to the fact that you’re about to join with your soulmate. The rest should just fall into place, right? Maybe…but many couples have never been involved with planning a wedding before so knowing where to start can be a bit overwhelming. In this blog, we will share some practical ways to start planning that will make getting started less daunting.

Photo by Dawn Marie Photo

 

Time of Year

The first thing many brides think of when they become engaged is the time of year they want to get married and this is a great place to start! There are pros and cons to each season, but we’ll have to discuss that another time. For now, think of when you’d like to get married and how long you would like your engagement to be. Longer engagements don’t suit some couples and that’s totally okay, but it can make planning a little less rushed and therefore less stressful.

Guest List

Before you do anything else, start writing a preliminary guest list. This is when it’s okay to add anyone and everyone you can think to invite (you can pair this down later). Next, go through your guest list and separate them into three categories. 1. Guests who you know will come 2. Guests who may come and 3. Guests who probably won’t make it for whatever reason. This will help you get a good idea of your guest count and later help you find a venue and decide on a budget. It’s also a good idea to keep a count of children that may attend. We like to keep this count separate because their meals are less expensive, and they won’t be included in the alcohol count, of course!

Photo by Gabrielle Von Heyking

 

Wedding Party

This next step is something that can be easy for some, but very difficult for others. Choosing who will stand next to you on your big day. Your wedding party will be who will help you through this whole process and, if you’re lucky, will throw you the best bachelor/bachelorette party ever! Our advice for who to choose to stand by you is that we don’t really have any… there aren’t hard and fast rules for wedding parties and it’s even okay to not have one! Maybe it will be just family, maybe it’s 10 on each side, or maybe the numbers aren’t even and that’s okay too. Just do what feels right for the two of you.

Wedding Budget

Okay, so, you finally have your planning under way, you’re doing great, but hold on for this next one. It may not be the most fun part of planning, but it’s a necessity. The budget. The good news is, once you have this in mind, you can use it as your guide and feel more comfortable when it comes to booking things. When creating your budget, you’ll need to know your ‘must-haves’ for the wedding. Here we go again, telling you to make another list, but really, you’re going to need this one! Try to keep this list strictly for your must-haves, and if you need to, you can make another list for the ‘we-really-want’ items. It can be hard to know where to begin when creating a budget, especially if you don’t know how much a wedding is “supposed to cost.” But again, there are no rules here, so you can go with what works for you!

Photo by Megan Sheppard Photography

Choosing your Venue

Now that you finally have these things in mind, you’re ready to begin searching for your perfect venue. This part can be a lot of fun seeing so many beautiful places. But it can also make it more difficult to choose the perfect one. Things to think about when deciding are, what works best with your vision, what’s accommodating to your guests, and does it fit in your budget. If a venue can meet all these criteria, then you really can’t go wrong! A few perks to look for in a venue are places that include things with the venue rental, such as chairs and tables. Another perk is a place whose staff are friendly and easy to communicate with. This will come in handy in the long run!

 

We truly wish the best to you and your future spouse and would love for you to consider Chetola Resort for your special day. If you’re interested in having your wedding at Chetola Resort visit the pages below to inquire with us or learn more about Weddings at Chetola Resort!

Posted on by Admin

 

Top Winter Outdoor Activities for Family & Friends

One of the most popular reasons that people visit the High Country is the endless array of recreational opportunities for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Lucky for us, we have loads of experience in enjoying this beautiful area and have put together a list of our favorite winter outdoor activities. Then, we have created a few sample itineraries based on how adventurous you feel. Pack your boots, jackets, hats, gloves, sunglasses, and High Country Bucket list- you are going to need them!

Snow tubing
Gliding down the snowy slopes is an exhilarating experience for the whole family. Try Hawksnest in Seven Devils (30 lanes of snow tubing fun!), Sugar Mountain ) or Beech Mountain Ski Resort for the best tubing in the area. Another option when natural snowfalls is the Chetola Sledding Hill, just steps away from the main area of the resort!

Winter Ziplining
Before you leave Hawksnest, be sure to check out their ziplining course, as it offers incredible views, as well as a fun flight over the tubing runs.

Ice Skating
Glide across the ice, while practicing your figure 8’s at Appalachian Ski Mountain’s ice skating rink. They have skates and even training equipment for those new to the experience on ice. And, only 10 minutes from Chetola!



Alpine Wilderness Coaster
Experience a new type of mountain thrill at the Alpine Wilderness Coaster in Banner Elk, NC (right across from Sugar Mountain). This rollercoaster through the trees can be as adrenaline-pumping or relaxing as you want it to be because you control your speed! You can whip down the coaster at up to 27 mph or slowly cruise down and enjoy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. And the best thing, the Alpine Coaster is open in all weather – sun, rain, or snow!

Photo by Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Grandfather Mountain
Experience the wonder of Grandfather Mountain with wildlife habitats, including bald eagles, black bears, cougars, elk, and river otters. There is winter hiking, the mile-high swinging bridge, and a museum. All reservations are made online- be sure to also check the weather before you go, as that can be an experience in itself!

appalachian ski mtn
Photo courtesy of Appalachian Ski Mountain

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Did you know that there are 3 major ski areas (App Ski Mtn, Sugar, and Beech) within 45 minutes of Blowing Rock? They combine for close to 250 acres of skiable terrain, with Beech Mountain averaging the most snowfall at close to 80” annually! App Ski Mtn. is only 10 minutes away from Chetola and offers some of the most sophisticated snow-making on the East Coast, which allows them to remain open for approximately 135 days each season.

UTV Rentals
Year-round adventure awaits with UTV rentals from Mountain Warriors in Elk Park, NC. They are located directly between Beech and Sugar Mountain communities and offer guided tours of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They have top-of-the line Polaris 4-seaters and focus on safety, as well as exhilarating experiences. This is certainly one for the bucket list!

Winter Hiking or Snowshoeing
One of the simplest and most enjoyable activities is hiking. There are endless trails in and around Blowing Rock and the surrounding areas. Here is a list of our favorite winter hikes. With wide-open views, virtually no bugs, and a wide range of options, winter may be the best season for hiking. And when the snow falls, strap on some snowshoes and explore the high country in its winter coating. From Chetola, guests can enjoy private access to 27 miles of carriage trails in the Moses Cone National Park, which is also a great place to snowshoe or cross country ski (when there’s enough snow)!

Fly-Fishing
There’s a reason God doesn’t freeze the rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains- it allows for year-round fishing! Enjoy walk/ wade experiences, private waters, or float trips along NC and TN’s pristine rivers and learn from some of the best guides around. Chetola Resort is NC’s first Orvis-endorsed fly fishing lodge and outfitter and offers guided trips year-round.

Chetola Sporting Reserve 5-Stand

Sporting Clays
Did you know that sporting clays are one of the fastest-growing sports among female enthusiasts? This is a great activity to enjoy the great outdoors while creating memories with friends and family. The Chetola Sporting Reserve offers a 5-stand that is covered and heated in the winter season. There is also archery and air rifles for the kiddos, as well as a rifle, pistol, and archery range.

Blue Ridge Parkway
Only 3 miles from Chetola Resort is one of America’s most beautiful and scenic highways, the Blue Ridge Parkway. Winter is a great time to explore the parkway, hike the trails, and picnic at one of the stunning overlooks. Pack a lunch from Timberlake’s Restaurant or a favorite local café and take in the winter views along the way. This is also a favorite for sunrise and sunset experiences.  Please note that the Parkway closes frequently due to snow and ice.  Check here for closures.

A Few Others
Sledding
Horseback Riding
Star Gazing
Scavenger Hunts for the Kiddos
Boone Greenway for bikes or walking

Sample Itineraries

Blowing Rock Area
Morning Ski at Appalachian Ski Mountain
Afternoon at Chetola Sporting Reserve
Evening Walk in Moses Cone National Park or around Chetola Lake

Seven Devils/ Banner Elk
Morning Tubing at Hawksnest
Afternoon at Alpine Wilderness Coaster
Late Afternoon at Sugar Mountain Skiing or Snowboarding

Banner Elk/ Beech Mountain
Morning Skiing at Beech Mountain
Afternoon UTV with Mountain Warriors
Late Afternoon drive back along Blue Ridge Parkway

Winter is one of the most beautiful times of the year, as the landscape glistens with the occasional snow and ice. There are plenty of things to do outside with friends and family to create unforgettable memories. Or, if you prefer, there is nothing quite like a toasty fire, a good book, and some hot chocolate. We look forward to helping you plan your winter escape to the mountains.